Global Sounds Converge in New York: 22nd globalFEST Set for Lincoln Center, January 2025

New York City is preparing to host a significant event in the global music calendar: the 22nd edition of globalFEST. Scheduled for Sunday, January 12, 2025, this esteemed festival, recognized as North America’s leading platform for global music, will unfold within the prestigious confines of Lincoln Center’s David Geffen Hall. The event is designed as an intensive, single-evening showcase, presenting ten diverse artists across three distinct stages, offering attendees an expansive auditory journey through music from around the world.

Event Structure and Venue

The 2025 iteration of globalFEST will leverage the architecture of Lincoln Center’s David Geffen Hall to create a dynamic, multi-stage environment. On the evening of Sunday, January 12, 2025, ten selected artists will perform concurrently or sequentially across these three stages, allowing the audience to curate their own experience of the diverse programming. This format is integral to globalFEST’s mission, enabling the simultaneous presentation of traditional forms, contemporary expressions, and music that transcends established genres, reflecting the rich and evolving global soundscape.

Featuring the 2025 Artist Roster

The lineup for globalFEST 2025 represents a carefully curated selection of talent from across continents, embodying the festival’s dedication to showcasing the planet’s musical wealth. The artists confirmed for this edition include the Akshara Music Ensemble, Mali’s Bamba Wassoulou Groove, Cape Verdean singer Elida Almeida, and a notable collaboration uniting Ghazi & Boom.Diwan with the acclaimed jazz pianist and bandleader Arturo O’Farrill. The stages will also host Ukraine’s Kommuna Lux, the ensemble Mireya Ramos and the Poor Choices, the Spanish group Maruja Limón, Haitian artist Paul Beaubrun, the Colombian-rooted Rebolu, and the Moroccan project Zar Electrik. This collective of performers underscores the festival’s broad mandate to explore and present music from varied cultural backgrounds and stylistic approaches.

A Legacy of Global Musical Presentation

Since its establishment in 2003, globalFEST has become an indispensable institution in promoting international music within North America. By consistently providing a high-profile platform, it has been instrumental in introducing hundreds of artists from diverse regions to new audiences and industry professionals. The festival’s history includes featuring over 300 artists originating from more than 70 countries, solidifying its reputation as a critical gateway for global sounds. The 22nd edition continues this legacy, bringing a new cohort of international talent to one of New York City’s premier cultural venues.

Accessing the Festival

Access to globalFEST 2025 is available via tickets purchased through Lincoln Center’s official website. In alignment with accessibility initiatives, a limited quantity of Choose-What-You-Pay tickets will be offered. These special tickets are designated for sale on the day of the event, Sunday, January 12, 2025, commencing at 10:00 am and can be secured both online and through phone reservations. This option aims to facilitate broader community engagement with the festival.

Conclusion

The upcoming 22nd globalFEST at Lincoln Center’s David Geffen Hall on January 12, 2025, is anticipated to uphold the festival’s tradition of excellence in presenting the world’s music. By gathering ten diverse artists on three stages for a single immersive evening, globalFEST continues to serve its vital role as North America’s foremost platform for global music, promising attendees an evening of discovery and cross-cultural connection.
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